„We value diversity and inclusion“: In accordance with this principle from the Krones target picture, our Italian subsidiary System Logistics pursues a consistent strategy for gender equality – and has been awarded the UNI/PdR 125:2022 certificate for this.
The issue of gender equality remains a challenge for the Italian job market. At least that is the judgement of the Gender Equality Index, which is calculated by the European Institute for Gender Equality (EIGE) and in which Italy currently ranks 14th.
Urgent need for action
„The data shows how much work still needs to be done in Italy,“ says Luigi Panzetti, CEO of System Logistics. Companies therefore have a direct responsibility „to create a safe working environment that favours the professional development of all people.“ For this very reason, System Logistics set up a steering committee for gender equality several years ago. This is made up of members of management and other company representatives. The common goal is to develop targeted strategies and measures to promote gender equality within the company. Reducing the gender pay gap and the targeted development of female employees are at the top of the list of priorities.
Women on the rise
These efforts are reflected in particular in balanced personnel growth: While the number of male employees has risen by 20 per cent over the last five years, the female share of the workforce has increased by more than 36 per cent over the same period. The focus is also on equal opportunities when filling key positions. For example, targeted programmes have strengthened the presence of women in the company’s management levels and led to a demonstrably lower gender pay gap.
„Social benefits, childcare and work-life balance are tools that support people of all genders and ages,“ says Carlo Bondioli, Head of Human Resources. „For us, this is the basis for continuing to invest in the talent of our employees and overcoming gender-specific barriers.“
External recognition
These successes have now been objectively confirmed with the UNI/PdR 125:2022 certification, a cross-industry recognised proof of gender equality in the working environment. The company is thus not only paying tribute to the Krones Group’s maturing ESG strategy, but is also positioning itself as an attractive employer for young talent. In 2023, around 24 per cent of the workforce was under the age of 30. And the trend is rising, as this age group accounts for around 40 per cent of new hires.
„The certification target was achieved thanks to the active participation of all the people who are part of our corporate reality – a result that reflects shared values and a strong sense of belonging,“ says Sustainability Manager Paulina Joanna Wietrzykowska. „We look to the future with determination, recognising that gender equality is a central pillar of our sustainability strategy, alongside ambitious challenges such as achieving the net-zero emissions target by 2040.“
